Nut spiral cake

Spiral Walnut Cake: A Holiday Delight

Every year, as the holidays approach, the smell of freshly baked cake fills our hearts with joy and reminds us of family traditions. This time, I invite you to discover a slightly different cake recipe, but just as delicious and charming – the spiral walnut cake. This recipe stands out not only for its unique shape but also for its enticing flavor that will impress even the most discerning of your guests.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours and 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:
- 500 g flour
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 70 ml oil (or melted butter/margarine)
- 270 ml milk (warm)
- 1 teaspoon fresh yeast
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of ½ orange
- Zest of ½ lemon

For the filling:
- 1 egg white
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 4 tablespoons milk

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Yeast:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix 100 ml of warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Add the fresh yeast and let it rise for 10-15 minutes until a foam forms.

2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, orange zest, and lemon zest. These will add a note of freshness and aroma to the cake.

3. Preparing the Dough:
Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the risen yeast. Begin kneading, gradually adding the warm milk mixed with sugar. Add the eggs one by one, continuing to knead. Finally, incorporate the oil (or butter). Knead the dough until it no longer sticks to your hands, about 10-15 minutes.

4. First Rising:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 1 hour and a half. The dough should double in size.

5. Preparing the Filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until foamy. Add the sugar and continue mixing for 2-3 minutes. Gradually incorporate the ground walnuts, rum essence, and milk, mixing with a spoon.

6. Shaping the Cake:
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and oil your hands. Roll out the dough into a rectangular sheet, being careful not to make it too thin. Spread the walnut filling evenly over the surface of the dough.

7. Rolling the Dough:
Roll the dough with the filling from one edge to the other, forming a tight roll. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled sheet into 7 equal parts.

8. Arranging in the Pan:
Prepare a round dish greased with oil or lined with baking paper. Place 6 spirals around the edge of the dish and one in the center. Cover again and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Brush the cake with egg yolk for a golden crust. Bake for about 35 minutes or until the cake is nicely browned.

10. Cooling and Serving:
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a platter. This spiral walnut cake is served warm, but it is just as delicious when cold.

Practical Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.
- Instead of oil, you can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
- You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as chocolate or raisins, to give it a personal touch.

Nutritional Benefits:
This spiral walnut cake is not only a delicacy but also contains valuable nutrients. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to heart health and improving brain function.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, but use about half the amount of dry yeast (about 1/2 teaspoon).
- How can I keep the cake fresh? You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for a longer duration.
- What drinks pair well with the cake? A cup of warm milk, a fragrant tea, or even mulled wine can perfectly accompany this dessert.

This spiral walnut cake will not only bring a touch of joy to every meal but will also become an unforgettable memory for all your loved ones. So, don’t hesitate to put on your chef’s attire and bring this recipe full of tradition to life!